What should be used to treat cat ears for mites? - briefly
Use a veterinary‑prescribed ear mite medication—e.g., selamectin (Revolution) or a lime‑sulfur ear dip—applied according to the product instructions after cleaning the ear canal.
What should be used to treat cat ears for mites? - in detail
Effective management of feline ear mite infestations requires a combination of mechanical cleaning and pharmacological therapy.
Cleaning the ear canal removes debris and facilitates medication absorption. Use a warm saline solution or a veterinary‑approved ear cleanser; apply a few drops, massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds, then allow the cat to shake, and wipe excess fluid with a soft gauze pad. Repeat on both ears daily for three to five days until visible wax and debris diminish.
Pharmacological agents fall into three categories:
- Topical acaricides – products containing selamectin, moxidectin, or milbemycin oxime are applied directly into the ear canal. They kill adult mites and interrupt the life cycle. Follow the label dosage; most require a single application, with a repeat dose after two weeks for complete eradication.
- Systemic treatments – oral or injectable formulations of ivermectin, milbemycin, or a combination product (e.g., a spot‑on containing selamectin) treat mites throughout the body and prevent reinfestation. Dosage is weight‑based; a single dose often suffices, but some protocols recommend a second dose after seven days.
- Prescription ear drops – solutions with pyrethrins, carbaryl, or a combination of antiparasitic agents provide rapid relief of itching and inflammation. Administer according to veterinary instructions, typically once or twice daily for five to seven days.
Adjunctive care includes:
- Antihistamines or corticosteroid ear drops to reduce inflammation and itching.
- Regular monitoring of ear condition; persistent debris or inflammation after treatment may indicate secondary infection requiring antibiotics or antifungal agents.
Treatment success depends on strict adherence to the cleaning schedule and accurate dosing of the chosen medication. Veterinary confirmation of mite species (Otodectes cynotis is most common) ensures appropriate drug selection and helps prevent resistance development.